No discipline seems pleasant at the time but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
(Hebrews 12:11 NIV)
Spiritual growth begins when our heart receives Jesus. The Lord prunes and disciplines us by “cutting off” areas of harmful growth in our lives and cutting back areas of good growth and maturity. However, like a vineyard, our growth is balanced with pruning, so optimal fruit can be produced.
Weeding out sin is also mandatory. Sin can quietly invade our hearts and put down roots. Once it’s established, it spreads quickly and chokes out everything good. We must constantly look for sin that has crept under the garden gate of our hearts. Like weeds, sin has to be dealt with early. Confess sin immediately and receive forgiveness. Don’t allow Satan to establish a foothold in your heart. Has your spiritual garden been neglected? Make tending your life a priority to produce a fruitful harvest for the Lord.